Egr valve removal for cleaning

[Decbro]

Hi , I have the 2.7 cvt tdi 2009 A6 , I keep getting the emission symbol on my dash when I plug in my Carista obd device it tells me error code p0401 insufficient air flow egr valve, so I have tried to remove the egr valve to clean it and check if it is stuck in the open or closed position, I have removed the 3 torx screws holding it in position, but can not seem to move the valve I am worried above levering it as it could damage the valve or another part in the engine, does anyone know how I can get this valve off without damaging anything? Is there a special technique or tool to do this? Any suggestions would be very welcome thanks